Don’t leave your lights on. This is a simple resolution, but it can make a big difference in your electric bill. If you’re not using the lights in a room, turn them off. This goes for living rooms and kitchens, too.
Use more power strips. Even when most electric devices aren’t turned on or in use, they still use power when plugged in. Instead of unplugging things all the time, invest in a power strip. You can plug multiple things into it and turn them all off at once.
Take shorter showers. That way, your water heater needs to heat less water, and less hot water means a lower electric bill.
Use your ceiling fans. This year, give your HVAC system a break by using your ceiling fans more. Set your fans to spin clockwise in the winter and counter-clockwise in the summer. They’ll pull warm air down from the ceiling when it’s cold and create a wind chill effect when it’s warm.
Get a programable or smart thermostat. With a programable or smart thermostat, you can save both energy and money by setting your heat or air conditioning to run only when you need/want it the most.
Wash full loads. Most of the energy used by dishwashers and washing machines goes toward heating the water. Washing only half loads of dishes or laundry wastes money. Wait until you have a full load of dishes or clothes before you wash them
Keep doors and windows closed. Don’t make your HVAC system work harder than it needs to. When you have your heat or air conditioning on, close your doors and windows to prevent hot or cold air from entering your home. If your windows open, make sure your thermostat is off.
Invest in efficient lightbulbs.LED bulbs are reasonably priced now. You are wasting money if you have not changed to them yet.
Keep the freezer full. Just like the loads of dishes or laundry, your freezer will use more energy to keep a few items frozen than if it was full. Even if it’s filling up plastic jugs with water and putting them in the freezer, you’ll save energy.
Improve your ductwork. Holes or bad connections in ductwork can leak the hot or cold air that’s coming from your HVAC system. By sealing and insulating your ductwork, you can prevent air leakage and improve airflow.
